Month: July 2023

Jul 20

The Evolution of U.S. Vehicle Production: Why SUVs Are Now Dominating the Market

The Shift Toward SUVs

Over the past few decades, the landscape of vehicle production in the U.S. has undergone a dramatic transformation, with SUVs emerging as the top choice for consumers. Initially designed for off-road adventures, SUVs quickly gained traction as practical options for families due to their spacious interiors and versatility. This shift is evident in production trends, where SUVs have increasingly outpaced sedans and wagons, reflecting their growing appeal and changing consumer preferences.

The Rise of SUVs and Their Impact

SUVs have evolved from niche vehicles into mainstream favorites, significantly altering the market dynamics. With the advent of advanced all-wheel drive systems and fuel-efficient technologies, SUVs have become more attractive to a broader audience. The shift in production is highlighted by the decline in sedan and wagon production, which fell below 50% of the market by 2004, while SUVs and trucks now dominate, making up over half of new vehicle production.

Fuel Efficiency and Market Trends

The improved fuel efficiency of modern SUVs has played a crucial role in their resurgence. Recent advancements, such as direct injection and turbocharging, have enhanced fuel economy, making SUVs more competitive with traditional sedans. Additionally, the growing influence of millennials, who are now embracing SUV ownership as their lifestyles evolve, further fuels this trend. As electric SUVs become more prevalent, this segment continues to grow, reflecting a significant shift in global automotive sales and consumer preferences.

Jul 20

What Is a Crotch Rocket?

The auto world is filled with slang terms that get flung around with such frequency we all use it, but some may not know exactly what it means. This also applies to the motorcycle world, and one of the terms we often use without a definitive definition is “crotch rocket.” So what is it, exactly, and how did the term originate?

What is crotch rocket slang for?

So what is a crotch rocket, exactly? Typically it is slang for any high-performance sport bike.

Urban Dictionary delves a little deeper saying, “A specific type of motorcycle, typically distinguished by its aerodynamic ‘hunched-over’ seating position and high power-to-weight ratio. Often favored by stunters, who choose the bikes because they are light and easy to perform tricks (such as wheelies and stoppies) on.”

They’re designed to be aerodynamic and achieve this by the rider crouching low to the frame, which means less drag. Crotch rockets are more for short races, and aren’t exactly known for comfort. Many can go from 0 to 60 in less than three seconds, and can even reach speeds in excess of 200 mph.

While you obviously can’t hit a highway in the U.S. and reach these types of speeds without getting a ticket, you can push your bike to the limit on racetracks. This is very dangerous, however, and not recommended unless you are in a race and trained to handle a bike at that type of speed. Even then, going over 200 mph could lead to an accident, and is not advised.

A surprisingly interesting history

Braaap Junkie reports it all began back in 1984 with the Kawasaki GPZ900R. It took six years of tweaking, modifying, and going back to the drawing board to get it just right, but Kawasaki persevered and eventually released the inspiration for all future crotch rockets.

At the time of release, the GPZ900R was the fastest bike in the world and could hit speeds of 121.65 mph in 11.8 seconds. While that sounds slow now, it was earth-shattering back in 1984.

Kawasaki would use the GPZ900R to go on and create the Ninja line. While Kawasaki may be responsible for the basic design of the crotch rocket, it’s far from the only automaker that produces them now.

After seeing the success of the Kawasaki GPZ900R, and perhaps taking it as a challenge that Kawasaki now had the fastest bike in the world, other automakers began to release their own line of performance street bikes.

Suzuki and Honda are just two manufacturers who jumped on the bandwagon. Ducati has also gone above and beyond to make luxury motorcycles that are a work of art, and well known in the racing world.

There are several crotch rockets on the market now that are very affordable, and depending on your situation could make more sense than buying a car. Some of these include the Yamaha YZF-R3, KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400, Honda CBR500R, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Yamaha R7, Honda CBR 650R, and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R.

If you’re interested in speed above all else, you’d have a hard time doing better than a crotch rocket. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for something to go on long rides in the mountains or cross-country, then you’ll want something built more with comfort in mind.

Jul 20

Minnesota Deputy Released from Hospital After SUV Collision at Music Festival

Deputy’s Road to Recovery

Deputy Brady Pundsack from Morrison County, Minnesota, has been discharged from the hospital following a serious incident at a local music festival. After being struck by an SUV while managing traffic at the Pierz Freedom Fest, Deputy Pundsack was taken to St. Cloud Hospital for treatment. His release on Wednesday was marked by a heartfelt escort from fellow officers, reflecting the strong support from the community and emergency services.

Community Support and Recovery

The Morrison County Sheriff’s Office has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from both the public and colleagues. They remain hopeful for Deputy Pundsack’s full recovery as he continues his rehabilitation at home. In addition to his role in law enforcement, Deputy Pundsack is also an active member of the Flensburg City Council, where he is highly regarded for his exceptional character and dedication.

Jul 20

‘My wife’s inside’: Alburtis man recounts rescuing wife from rubble after SUV plows into their home

We’re hearing from the Lehigh County family whose house was slammed into by an out-of-control SUV. The man who lives in the house on South Main Street tells 69 News that his son and wife were inside at the time.

Victor Martinez says his wife is still in the hospital awaiting surgery, while his 8-year-old son miraculously escaped with only scratches.

69 News met with Martinez and his eight-year-old son, Victor Martinez, Jr., at the nearby hotel they’re staying at. The family’s house is now all boarded up, looking much different without the gaping hole all across its front.

“I work too hard for my family,” an emotional Martinez said. “Everything’s for my family.”

Martinez says he is relieved his wife and son will be okay, after the SUV came flying down the road, plowing right into his home on Wednesday afternoon, on South Main Street in Alburtis.

Martinez raced home from work immediately after he received that phone call.

“I see this home is destroyed,” Martinez said. “And my wife’s inside.”

Inside his home, he found his wife, beyond the SUV that crashed. She was buried under rubble and her leg was stuck.

“I remember I took a lot of pieces of wood off, I don’t remember how many,” Martinez said.

“I’m thinking about every piece of wood that fell,” his son, Martinez, Jr., said. “Whenever there’s a piece of wood, I think about my house.”

Martinez, Jr. was inside with his mom when it happened. A scratch is still visible going down the side of his face. He says he was sitting on one couch, and was hit by the other couch that his mom was on.

“It squished me,” he said. “I saw the air conditioner hanging, but I don’t remember how I got the scrapes.”

Martinez, Jr. says his mom was passed out for a short period as he yelled to wake her.

His father tells 69 News, with the help of neighbors, he pulled his wife outside. Both were sent to the hospital, along with the driver of that blue SUV.

Martinez’s wife will undergo surgery for her broken ankle. His son was released Wednesday evening.

Police tell 69 News that the driver of the car, who was also hospitalized, will be released sometime Thursday, pending medical tests. They say she passed a preliminary breath test Wednesday at the scene and she showed no sign of being under the influence.

Neighbors have a prayer vigil set up for 6 p.m. Thursday at the Alburtis house, where they’ll raise donations for the family. A friend of the family also created a GoFundMe page.

Jul 20

Thought We Had a Few More Years of the Toyota GR86? Think Again

The current Toyota GR86’s days might be numbered. Toyota may make the next-gen model on a hybrid platform.

The Toyota GR86 and its mechanical companion, the Subaru BRZ, are staples in the driver’s car landscape with a fervent attachment to a joyous manual transmission. However, the engaging Toyota sports car might give up its analog, naturally aspirated platform sooner than you think. That’s right; the 2025 Toyota GR86 might be a turbo hybrid rather than the rev-happy N/A four-cylinder coupe fans love.

Does the GR86 have a turbo?

The 2023 Toyota GR86 doesn’t use forced induction like a turbo or supercharger. Instead, the sports coupe packs a 228-horsepower 2.4L flat four-cylinder “boxer” engine. The result is a rev-happy and responsive mill with a distinctive soundtrack.

The GR86 isn’t the only one, either; it shares the H4 engine with its mechanical sibling, the Subaru BRZ. Both models produce 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque without the assistance of a turbo. Moreover, the H4-powered duo offers traditional manual transmissions, a feature that competitors like the upcoming 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost won’t have.

Will the next Toyota GR86 be a hybrid?

The 2025 Toyota GR86 might be a turbocharged hybrid, ditching the Subaru flat four-cylinder engine. According to MotorTrend, the Japanese marque might rethink the GR86, including an all-new platform.

It’s surprising news given the latest GR86’s short tenure. Specifically, the 2022 Toyota GR86 took over from the 86 Coupe after a year-long hiatus in 2022. As a result, the 2024 GR86 is just the third model year of the “GAZOO Racing” (GR) model, still sporting the much-needed aesthetic and mechanical upgrades from the 2022 model. Moreover, Toyota’s commitment to fun driver’s cars under the GR lineup should allow the current N/A platform to survive beyond 2025.

What generation of Toyota GR86 are we in now?

The Toyota GR86 is in its second generation after the new platform took over in 2022. Of course, the first-generation sports coupe didn’t carry the “GR” prefix.

Second-gen GR86 2022-Present
First-gen 86 (Post-facelift) 2019, 2020
First-gen 86 2017, 2018

Unlike the Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger, Toyota hasn’t allowed the 86’s looks to become too familiar. The first update arrived after just two model years, and the marque closed the books on the post-facelift, first-gen model after another two years.

Will the next Subaru BRZ be a hybrid, too?

The latest buzz surrounding the 2025 Toyota GR86 suggests that the next model will not be a collaboration with the Subaru BRZ. As a result, the BRZ may continue to be a boxer-engine sports coupe devoid of hybridization.

Jul 20

Discover the Best Place To Buy Used Cars

If you’re looking to buy a new car but not a new-new car then it’s important to learn about the best places to buy a used vehicle. While the process of buying a brand-new vehicle is pretty straightforward, there’s more to consider when buying used. You want to make sure you’re getting the best deal on a reliable vehicle while saving yourself the financial stress of buying a car fresh off the factory floor. For this reason, we’ve put together this guide to help car shoppers figure out the best place to buy used cars.

In general, used car buyers have two options when deciding where to get their car: a dealership or a private party. However, even within these two camps, you have many options for where to shop. We’re here to help car shoppers like you weigh the pros and cons of each option so you can feel confident in your decision.

Compare Auto Loan Rates Below

Keep in mind, it’s always in your best interest to do your research on any vehicle you plan to purchase. This means checking its vehicle identification number (VIN), getting a vehicle history report, and reviewing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration site to learn about any existing recalls on the vehicle’s make and model. Now, let’s learn where to go when you’re preparing to buy.

Buying From a Dealership

Your first stop when shopping for a used car might be a standard, manufacturer-affiliated dealership. When you buy a new or used vehicle from a dealership, the process typically involves choosing a vehicle, getting a quote, and determining the best financing option.

Buying a used car this way has several benefits. First, most dealerships keep an updated list of their used car inventory online. This means you can browse the offerings at multiple dealerships and compare listings from the comfort and convenience of your couch. Second, dealerships typically have the option of in-house financing, which can add even more convenience to your experience. With in-house financing, the dealership can handle or reduce the amount of administrative work you have to do. Third, you can visit the dealership to see the vehicle in person and give it a test drive.

However, going straight to the dealership might not be the best option for everyone, and not every dealership offers the same experience. Before we get into the different dealership experiences you might have, it’s important to understand some cons of buying from a dealership.

For one, it might be more expensive. You might get a better deal on your preferred make and model of used car by shopping elsewhere. Further, many dealerships specialize in only one type of used car, limiting your options if you’re not 100% sure what you want.

Buying Certified Pre-Owned From a Dealership

If you’re looking to buy a used car that’s guaranteed to be in like-new condition, consider purchasing a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle from a dealership. These vehicles are usually low-mileage cars that have undergone inspection and been refurbished until they’re on par with the manufacturer’s standards.

Often, a CPO car is an off-lease vehicle that’s about two to four years old. This gives you peace of mind knowing the vehicle you buy has been gently used. However, for these reasons, CPO cars might be more expensive than other used vehicles. So, if you’re looking for a car that splits the difference between newish and used-ish (and don’t mind paying a little more), a CPO car might be a good option.

Buying Noncertified Pre-Owned From a Dealership

If you want the other benefits of buying from a dealership, such as in-house financing, but don’t need all the bells and whistles (or the price tag) of a CPO, then you can check out the other used car options through the dealership’s inventory page. Any used car you purchase through a dealership has likely undergone an inspection. Based on this inspection, the dealership typically resolves any major issues with the vehicle before they sell it.

Most of this used car inventory comes from trade-ins, and many dealerships give you a direct link to the vehicle’s CARFAX report or AutoReport page. While your used car might not be CPO-fresh, it’s likely to be in decent shape and have more documentation than that hunk of junk Joe’s selling up the street. As an added benefit, you can arrange a meet and greet to see the car in person and give it a test drive before you buy it.

Buying From an Independent Dealer

Your experience buying a used car from independent dealers might differ from that of buying through a manufacturer-affiliated establishment. Independent dealerships can vary widely in their practices and policies, so you’re going to want to vet the independent dealerships in your area to verify their reputation. Good resources for researching independent dealerships include Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau.

Before you jump in, it’s also good to know that different independent dealerships can specialize in different types of vehicles. While these dealerships might not affiliate themselves with a particular automaker, they might have a specialty such as utility vehicles or luxury models. If you already know what kind of car you want, finding an independent dealership that works with that type of vehicle can be a good place to start. If you’re keeping your options open, consider checking out a dealership with a good variety of vehicles to explore.

Visiting independent used car dealerships can be a good option if you’re looking to buy a used car cheaper than what you can get at a chain. If you’re working on your credit score, it might also be easier to get financed through these dealerships. Also, for many of these dealerships, used cars are their bread and butter. Because these lots specialize in used cars, they might have better insight into the used car market than other sellers.

However, this route comes with a few downsides. First, independent dealerships might not have the same access to the extensive inventories big-name dealerships have. Additionally, large dealerships often have more contacts with local banks, which can improve your financing options and make the process simpler. This means you might end up with a less-than-ideal financing package, including higher interest rates than what you might get through a big-name dealership.

Ultimately, your mileage might vary when it comes to working with these types of dealerships, so do your homework on both the establishment and any vehicle you’re interested in purchasing.

Buying From a Large Chain Used Car Retailer

While many large-chain used car retailers fall under the category of independent dealerships, it’s worth mentioning them separately because they have their own share of pros and cons. Your experience purchasing from a large chain dealership might be closer to the experience of buying from a manufacturer-affiliated dealership than an independent one.

For example, these retailers often have extensive inventories of used cars they buy at auction. They are more likely to have better resources than your locally owned and operated independent dealership. This means buyers get the full dealership experience, from seeing the showroom to dealing with overly friendly professional sales associates.

You might also have the option to buy a warranty through the dealership or take advantage of in-house financing. With that said, the prices at these dealerships might be higher than visiting your local mom-and-pop used car lot.

Here’s what you can expect from the three best-known chain used car retailers:

  • CarMax: CarMax is the largest chain used car retailer in the nation, and buyers can find a diverse selection of makes and models through this dealership. Working with CarMax can also give you access to perks such as curbside pickup and delivery, no-haggle pricing, a 24-hour test-drive period, and a warranty that encompasses the first 90 days or 4,000 miles (whichever comes first) of ownership.
  • DriveTime: Like CarMax, DriveTime has many perks to offer buyers. Here, you can access financing, no-haggle pricing, a limited warranty for up to 30 days or 1,500 miles, and a five-day return policy.
  • AutoNation: Buyers using AutoNation can find new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, meaning this dealership offers a good variety of cars for those still exploring their options. This dealership also assists buyers by having them name their budget on arrival and working with them to find the vehicle that best suits their needs while staying within their means.

Buying From a Private Party

If you’re not looking to buy a used car from a dealership, your other option is to buy from a private party. This might mean purchasing a car from a friend, family member, neighbor, or another independent individual. You can make this purchase in person or online, from someone you know or a total stranger. Like buying from a dealership, each of these options has its pros and cons. Let’s look at what you need to know when buying a used car from a private party.

Buying In Person From a Private Seller

When you buy a used car from a private seller, your experience will depend on the individual with whom you work. The experience might be simpler than going through a dealership because it often has less paperwork and fewer opportunities for intense negotiations. This can be especially true if you’re buying from someone you know and trust. Buying a used car from a friend, family member, or neighbor can be as simple as exchanging cash for keys, though we highly recommend you acquire the formal paperwork (including the car title) to legitimize the transaction and protect your investment.

If you’re buying from a private seller you don’t know, it’s important to put in your due diligence to ensure their credibility. While plenty of legitimate people out there are just looking to sell their cars to good homes, be aware of potential scams, and be prepared to do the legwork when vetting any vehicle you might purchase.

At a minimum, get a car history report or the vehicle’s identification number so you can learn about potential problems before you invest. Try to schedule a time to see the car in person and test-drive it. You can also ask to bring the car to an independent, third-party mechanic for an evaluation. Getting an unbiased assessment can help you learn about any existing mechanical problems the car might have that could end up costing you in the long run. The last thing you want is to buy a used car you have to replace in three months.

With all that in mind, you might get a better deal on your used car by purchasing from a private seller than a dealership. Private sellers don’t have the same overhead as a dealership, meaning they can often afford to sell you a car at a fair price. Additionally, you might have an easier time negotiating the price of a used car with a private seller. Because private sellers typically aren’t trained in sales tactics in the same way as dealership professionals, negotiating might be easier.

Of course, working with private sellers can mean more risks in terms of what you get when you make your purchase. Dealerships must follow certain regulations that don’t apply to private sellers, so there’s less guarantee the car you buy is up to standard.

Also, you’ll have to do more work to manage your paperwork when you buy from a private seller. You must figure out your own financing before you pursue your purchase. Further, you don’t have the benefit or convenience of comparing vehicles side by side with a private seller like you would at a dealership lot.

Buying From an Online Seller

Shopping online can be convenient for many used car buyers. Online car listings can be great for finding available vehicles and making quick comparisons between your options. You can shop for local vehicles or expand your search to out of state, meaning you have a lot of flexibility compared to visiting local dealership lots. In some cases, you can even complete all the paperwork and finalize the transaction online, making this option the ultimate convenience.

However, buying online often comes with the same pitfalls as buying a used car from a private seller. Because you’re not going through a dealership, it’s up to you to do your research and determine the seller’s credibility. You’re also on your own when it comes to figuring out your financing and managing your paperwork.

If you’re buying a vehicle from out of state, the paperwork can become even more complicated because you’ll need to figure out what you owe on sales taxes and registration fees for both the state of purchase and your state of residence.

The other major disadvantage of buying online is you might not get to assess the car in person before you buy. Pictures can be misleading, and without seeing and testing the vehicle yourself, you might not know what you’re getting into. For that reason, it’s even more important to find out everything you can about a vehicle’s history, such as through a CARFAX report, if you’re looking to purchase online.

Where Is the Best Place To Buy Used Cars?

As you might expect, the best place to buy used vehicles depends on your needs and priorities. Buying through a dealership can be a great way to meet all your one-stop shop needs for comparing vehicles, testing, financing, and finalizing purchases. However, budget-savvy consumers might find more value in pursuing private sellers. If you’re a risk-taker who prioritizes convenience above all else or just need a cheap car fast looking online might be the best option.

Take time to reflect on your goals and needs. Weigh the pros and cons of each option to ensure you choose the right seller for you.

Jul 20

Tesla’s Progress on Optimus Robots: What We Know So Far

Development Challenges and Achievements

Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently disclosed that the company has produced only a handful of Optimus humanoid robots so far, citing significant hurdles in actuator design. Since the robot’s announcement at Tesla’s AI Day in August 2021, the development has faced delays due to the need for custom-built actuators. Unlike standard components, these actuators are crucial for the robot’s movement, requiring Tesla to innovate from scratch.

Future Prospects and Production Plans

Musk indicated that the first batch of production-ready actuators, essential for scaling up production, should be completed by around November. Despite initial setbacks, Tesla remains optimistic about Optimus, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the company’s future operations. With ambitious forecasts of 10 to 20 billion units, Optimus could significantly surpass Tesla’s current vehicle fleet, potentially reshaping the market with its advanced technology.

Jul 20

Good Samaritan’s vehicle stolen after stopping to help driver in crash

A good Samaritan’s vehicle was stolen after stopping to help the driver involved in a wreck on Madison’s south side, according to the Madison Police Department.

MPD investigators believe a passenger in the rental truck that crashed into a parked car took off in the stolen vehicle.

The good Samaritan was one of several who stopped to help after seeing a box rental truck crash into a parked car, MPD says.

The crash happened around 7:25 p.m. on Waunona Woods Ct.

Responders revived the truck driver with Narcan. He was arrested for second-offense OWI, and possession of cocaine and fentanyl.

MPD continued to say the stolen vehicle has not been found.

Jul 20

Is an 84-Month Car Loan the Right Choice for You?

Understanding the 84-Month Car Loan

An 84-month car loan extends over seven years, allowing you to spread payments across a longer period. This can make monthly payments more manageable but generally results in higher total interest costs. Unlike shorter-term loans, which might have higher payments but lower overall interest, the 84-month term offers a more accessible monthly payment for budget-conscious buyers.

Pros and Cons of a Long-Term Loan

Opting for an 84-month car loan can be advantageous if you need lower monthly payments to fit your budget or if you plan to invest in a more reliable vehicle. This loan term can reduce your debt-to-income ratio, potentially aiding in future financing opportunities, and may allow for refinancing down the road. However, the major downside is the increased total interest paid and the risk of negative equity due to the car’s depreciation over time. Before committing, ensure you can handle the long repayment period and check if prepayment penalties apply, which could affect your ability to pay off the loan early and save on interest.

When an 84-Month Loan Makes Sense

An 84-month loan might be suitable if you’re currently on a tight budget but need a dependable vehicle, or if you foresee the possibility of refinancing when your financial situation improves. It’s also worth considering if you can secure a 0% APR deal, which would negate the long-term interest costs typically associated with such loans. Evaluating your financial goals and understanding the long-term costs can help you make an informed decision about whether this loan term aligns with your needs.

Jul 20

Thief Nabbed By South Hackensack Officer After Crashing Stolen SUV Outside Bergen Courthouse

Officer Damian Colon was on patrol when he spotted a 2016 Honda SUV reported stolen out of Newark heading down Green Street at 1:15 a.m. Thursday, July 20, Detective Sean Bannon said.

Colon tried to pull the driver over, the detective said. but he hit the gas instead.

A short time later, the SUV careened across the sidewalk and crashed into a handicapped parking sign at 1 Bergen Plaza, Bannon said.

The driver — Angel Quinones of Newark — got out and tried to run, but Colon quickly chased him down in front of the courthouse, the detective said.

Hackensack police and Bergen County sheriff’s officers assisted, Bannon said, thanking them on behalf of his department.

Besides the stolen car, Quinones had a wallet, credit cards and a retired law enforcement card taken from another vehicle.

He was first sent to Hackensack University Medical Center for an evaluation of possible injuries from the crash.

Then he was booked into the Bergen County Jail to await a first appearance in Central Judicial Processing Court in Hackensack on charges of receiving stolen property, resisting arrest, eluding and possession of paraphernalia and a small amount of crack.